15 Ferret Health Warning Signs

These scenarios may indicate a problem with your ferret’s health.

Ferrets aren’t just cute and funny balls of fluff. They are adventurous, sneaky and extremely curious.

Before you close the fridge door or washing machine lid, check for your ferret — I’m not kidding. Ferrets can, and will, get into some strange places.

And don’t forget about chewing. Ferrets can ingest dangerous things, so keep your veterinarian’s number handy and be on the lookout for the following ferret health warning signs.

To read more on this story, click here: 15 Ferret Health Warning Signs

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Rabbit: Species Profile

Characteristics, Housing, Diet, and Other Information

Rabbits are very active and playful animals that are also very social; they will form a close bond with other rabbits and even with people. As long as you know what to expect from a pet rabbit, they have the potential to be wonderful pets. The ideal owner for a pet rabbit is an individual or family with the time and space to dedicate to an active pet that enjoys cuddling and playing and requires a bit of maintenance. Whether it involves daily interaction with owners or other rabbits, these animals require a lot of interaction. Rabbits come in many different breeds—lionhead, mini lop, mini rex, rex, lop, Dutch, English spot, and hotot, to name a few—and some can even be raised as show animals.

To read more on this story, click here: Rabbit: Species Profile

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Sculptor Rajiv Anchal Spent 10 Years Creating This Magnificent 200ft Bird Sculpture

India has so much to offer to its people and tourists alike. If you’re planning to take a trip to this charming country, make sure to visit the tallest bird sculpture in the world. The 200-feet sculpture lies on top of the 1,000-feet Jatayupara towers located at Jatayu Earth Centre in Chadayamangalam, Kerala.  Rajiv Anchal, an Indian film director and sculptor, took 10 years to finish this magnificent sculpture. This gigantic statue of a fallen eagle has caught the attention of social media even during its construction. Now, people can finally see this spectacular attraction up close and personal. Instagram and Twitter better get ready because this majestic eagle statue is going to take over social media for sure.

To read more on this story, click here: Sculptor Rajiv Anchal Spent 10 Years Creating This Magnificent 200ft Bird Sculpture

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Black Cat Appreciation Day – Lets Celebrate and Learn About Black Cats

Looking for a special way to celebrate Black Cat Appreciation Day? Keep reading to honor these fantastic felines by learning more about them.

Throughout the ages, black cats have garnered a negative reputation.  However, they are very special and deserve to be celebrated and appreciated.  Today is the perfect day to show them a little extra love.

This post may contain affiliate links. I earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you if you purchase through an affiliate link.

To read more on this story, click here: Black Cat Appreciation Day – Lets Celebrate and Learn About Black Cats

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How Did the Netherlands Manage to Become the First Country to have no Stray Dogs?

The World Health Organisation estimates there are around 200 million stray dogs worldwide. Impressively, the Netherlands is not contributing to this statistic. It has become the first country in the world without any stray dogs! 

Dutch people love their pets. Puppies are whisked around the city in bike baskets, most cafes and restaurants are dog-friendly, and small pets can ride on public transport for a reduced price. Once, I even looked after a dog that had different flavoured meals for each night of the week (unreal, I know…). But all this dog-loving evidently pays off!

To read more on this story, click here: How Did the Netherlands Manage to Become the First Country to have no Stray Dogs?

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A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling with Pets

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Traveling with a pet, especially for the first time, is a daunting and stressful task — for both you as well as your furry companion. (That’s why we typically suggest only traveling with your pet when necessary.)

Of course, some animals don’t mind the jet-set life and make great travel buddies. Just like humans, each pet is a unique individual that adapts to the world differently. Whether it’s your pet’s first flight or they’re a seasoned, four-legged world traveler, these tips will help guarantee you and your furry friend have a seamless journey.

To read more on this story, click here: A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling with Pets

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Meet Einstein, the Smallest Horse in the World

They say good things come in small packages – meet Einstein, the world’s smallest horse!

He holds the record as the smallest foal worldwide, weighing in at only 6 lbs at birth.

Einstein was foaled in April of 2010 at a farm in New Hampshire. He stood a mere 14 inches at birth!

His dam and sire stood at 32 and 30 inches tall, both holding championship miniature horse titles.

How Tall is Einstein the Miniature Horse?

At the age of 10, Einstein is now full-grown and stands at 2 feet tall and weighs roughly 80 pounds.

To read more on this story, click here: Meet Einstein, the Smallest Horse in the World

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DOG WHO CHARGED INTO GUNFIRE TO SAVE SOLDIERS RECEIVES HIGHEST HONOR

Not every hero wears a mask. Some have wagging tails and are coated in fur. Military K9 Kuno went beyond and beyond the call of duty, putting his own life on the line to save the lives of soldiers. With a brace and a prosthetic leg, the 4-year-old Belgian Malinois is now retired, but he has never felt more alive.

Kuno went beyond and beyond the call of duty, and his efforts were not ignored. Kuno has been awarded the Dickin Medal, the highest decoration in the British military, after surviving lengthy medical procedures. For his hard work and commitment, he deserves it more than anyone else.

To read more on this story, click here: DOG WHO CHARGED INTO GUNFIRE TO SAVE SOLDIERS RECEIVES HIGHEST HONOR

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Are Your Pets Protected From Fire/Carbon Monoxide When You Are Away From Home?

I recently heard a story of where a family and their pets died from carbon monoxide poisoning, which has prompted me to write this story.

As you go about your daily life, have you ever thought what would happened if a fire broke out in your home or apartment while you were away? And your beloved pet is home alone. While I am sure most of you reading this have protection for your family and pets…there are some that don’t.

Not everyone can afford or choose to have the paid emergency system linked to the fire department. However, you can install the wireless smoke/carbon monoxide detectors. Did you know that some fire departments will come to you home and install them for free? You can call your local fire department to see if they offer this free service.

The advantage of having a smoke/carbon monoxide detector is that maybe a neighbor,or someone passing by will hear it when it goes off, and can get help to your home or apartment.

There are all types of smoke/carbon monoxide detectors, in several price ranges. May I suggest the Pet Emergency Stickers for your doors in the event of an emergency at your home or apartment while you are away, this will notify emergency responders of any pets that you have inside. This will prompt them to look for your pet and know what type of animal they are looking for.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says, Carbon monoxide, or CO, is an odorless, colorless gas that can cause sudden illness and death.

Remember to change the batteries in your alarms!

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Ways to Thwart an Off-Leash Dog Rushing You and Your Dog

There are countless reasons your dog may not like being rushed by an off-leash dog when he’s on-leash. And senior dogs, those recovering from injuries, and shy pups or fearful dogs may find the attention of off-leash dogs upsetting or overwhelming. Even friendly dogs may not appreciate interacting with another dog in such a socially unequal situation. Leashes can cause a lot of issues.

When you encounter an off-leash dog, keep these things in mind:

Know that it is always okay to protect your dog: Most urban and suburban environments have leash laws, and if your dog is on a leash you are right in keeping your dog safe. You are also completely within your rights to report off-leash dogs to your local authorities.
Evaluate the situation to see if the owner is nearby: If he is, tell him to call his dog. Many people will respond by telling you that their dog is “friendly,” but regardless of their dog’s behavior, if their dog is not under their control and is upsetting you or your dog, it is a problem.

Remember, you can choose whether to let that dog meet your dog.

So, how can you stop a dog that’s charging you? There are several different strategies:

1. Give the loose dog something better to do

Dogs who seem happy and bubbly are often easily stopped by asking them to “sit.” If the dog complies, you can toss a handful of treats to him and make your escape while he’s vacuuming them up. Even if he doesn’t listen, toss a handful of treats towards his face (with the intent to startle, not hurt). When he stops to see what hit him, he’ll realize that there’s food on the ground and devote his attention to eating instead of rushing your dog.

This method has worked really well for a few overly exuberant dogs. It doesn’t stop them from approaching in the future, but it’s the kindest way to give your dog space without the potential fallout that more forceful methods may cause.

2. If that doesn't work, try to startle the loose dog

Step in between your dog and the oncoming dog and use a body block. Square your shoulders and hips, and hold your hand out like a cop stopping traffic while saying “no,” “stop,” or “stay” in a firm, low voice. Alternatively, you could carry an umbrella and open it in the direction of the rushing dog, which will both startle him and provide a physical and visual barrier.

3. Use a spray product if he comes close

Spray Shield is a citronella product manufactured by Premier/PetSafe. It is aversive to most dogs without actually harming them, and can be sprayed directly at an oncoming dog. Some people have also reported success using compressed air in the same way. Spray Shield has the added benefit of working to stop some dog fights, so if things do get out of hand you have a safer way to break up a fight than trying to forcibly remove one of the combatants.

4. Don’t use pepper spray

Not only can pain make some dogs more aggressive, but if the wind gusts the wrong way the spray could end up getting into your or your dog’s face and eyes, leaving you incapacitated with an unknown dog rushing you. Not a good situation to be in! Running away is also generally not advised, as it will just encourage most dogs to chase you. Picking your dog up is usually not a good idea, although in some situations you may decide it’s a calculated risk you’re willing to take. Doing so may put you at greater risk and can intensify the off-leash dog’s interest in your pup.

5. But if you must pick up your dog ...

While cases of truly aggressive dogs intent on bodily harm are rare, they do happen. If your small dog is rushed by an aggressive off-leash dog, you may be able to pick him up and toss him somewhere safer, such as in a nearby garbage can, inside a fenced yard, in the bed of a truck, or on the roof of a car. You can also take advantage of some of these safety options. If you have a bigger dog or if no other options are available, you may need to assess whether your dog would be safer if you dropped the leash so that he can try to get away from the other dog or defend himself.

6. Protect yourself

If the loose dog redirects on you (which is rare, but does happen), protect your head and neck. Spray Shield will stop all but the most aggressive dogs, and generally these dogs are only stopped by physically separating them from their victim.

While no single method will work in every case, the more tools you have in your toolbox, the better able you’ll be to protect your dog. Remember that it is always okay to stand up for your dog.

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Dog Heartworm is Risky to Treat, But Prevention is Key

While heartworm disease is certainly a serious health risk, the good news is that it is also one of the most easily prevented conditions. Monthly heartworm preventives come in convenient oral forms (such as Heartgard Plus or Sentinel) or easily-applied topical applications (such as Revolution).

It is recommend using a heartworm preventive every month year-round. In the long run, maintaining your dog’s heartworm protection is money well spent.

The fact is, heartworm infection is still an extremely serious health concern for your dog, and the risk of it is widespread.

The American Heartworm Society notes that adult heartworm disease has been reported in dogs in all 50 states. Adult heartworm disease can cause severe damage to the heart, lungs and other organs, and can eventually lead to death. While it is true that there is a treatment for adult heartworm disease, the treatment can be costly, requires hospitalization, and is not without the risk of side effects.

The Heartworm Life Cycle depends on the mosquito. When the insect bites an infected dog, it takes in tiny
heartworm larvae (microfilariae) that have been circulating in the animal’s bloodstream. Once inside the mosquito, the microfilariae mature into infective larvae, eventually migrating to the mosquito’s mouthparts, to be transmitted when the insect bites another animal.

In the new host, the larvae continue to develop, eventually migrating through the bloodstream to the lungs, heart and associated vessels, where they cause inflammation  and obstruct blood flow. As the larvae become adult worms, they mate and produce more microfilariae, continuing the cycle. The heartworm life cycle, from larva to adult worm, generally takes about 6 months.

If a dog develops heartworm infection, the drug Immiticide (melarsomine hydrochloride) is the only one that is approved by the FDA for the treatment of adult heartworm disease in dogs. Immiticide is given by deep injection into the muscles of the back, usually in two or three doses over the course of about a month.

As the drug works, dead and dying worms in the heart and lungs can cause an inflammatory reaction in the body. While Immiticide is better tolerated by the body than the previously used drug Caparsolate, the dog must still remain hospitalized during treatment to be observed for the development of possible side effects.

After treatment the dog's activity level must be quite limited to reduce the chance of pulmonary thromboembolism (obstruction of blood flow in the arteries of the lungs, caused by dead heartworms), which can lead to death.

Dogs should be confined to a crate and leash walked outside to eliminate only. Heartworm positive dogs must be exercise restricted from the time of diagnosis until four weeks after the final Immiticide injection.

Follow-up diagnostic testing may be needed after treatment, also. Although treatment will kill the adult heartworms, it cannot repair any damage that they may have done prior to treatment.

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Mom-To-Be Captures the Emotional Moment Her Dog Realizes She’s Pregnant: ‘So Amazing and Beautiful’

This TikToker shared the beautiful moment his dog realized his wife was pregnant, and it’s so moving!

Ryan (@maxpotentialdogtraining) is a dog trainer, dog lover, and dad who shares sweet videos of his family on TikTok. When Ryan’s wife Stephanie was pregnant, he shared an incredibly heartwarming video of the moment his dog, Nova, realized Stephanie was expecting.

The emotional video begins with Stephanie sitting on a couch with one dog curled up beside her and her other dog, Nova, standing on her lap. Ryan films as Nova presses her head into Stephanie’s forehead. Stephanie smiles as Nova stares at her.

To read more on this story, click here: Mom-To-Be Captures the Emotional Moment Her Dog Realizes She’s Pregnant: ‘So Amazing and Beautiful’

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Did You Know That a Cat Purring Has Been Linked to Lowering Stress, and Lessening the Chances of Having a Heart Attack?

Those crazy cat ladies might be onto something. According to today’s infographic, our feline friends provide us with more than just emotional support. House cats may actually be contributing to our physical well-being. When a cat purrs within a range of 20-140 Hertz, nearby humans may be therapeutically benefiting from these vibrations. Purring has been linked to lowering stress, decreasing symptoms of Dyspnoea, lessening the chances of having a heart attack, and even strengthening bones.

Pet therapy is apparently gaining momentum in many medical communities, and according to Animal Planet’s website, there is scientific research that suggests pet owners live longer than those without pets.

It seems that our own animals have the ability to relieve us of our troubles, or at least make our worries seem less important. The bond between pets and their owners may never be fully understood, but it’s nice to know having a furry confidant around can add years to our lives.

If you’re thinking about getting a cat, visit you local animal shelter. 

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Be Careful! That Cute Puppy that You See in the Store or Online...May be Coming from a Puppy Mill!

So you've decided to get a puppy? If you are thinking about getting one from a pet store or on-line, please be careful. That cute puppy most likely came from a puppy mill.

Definition of a puppy mill:

A puppy mill, sometimes known as a puppy farm, is a commercial dog breeding facility that is operated with an emphasis upon profits above animal welfare and is often in substandard conditions regarding the well-being of dogs in their care. Similar types of operations exist for other animals most commonly kept as pets or used as feed for other animals. The term can be applied to operations involving other animals commercially bred for profit, e.g. "kitty mills." There are an estimated 4,000 puppy mills in the U.S. that produce more than half a million puppies a year. Commercial kennels may be licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture which may inspect the kennels routinely.

Please take a look at the video below:



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